Vadodara has been in the news recently due to a serious incident involving the Girnara Bridge over the Mahi River. The bridge, which was 40 years old, collapsed on Wednesday morning, leading to a major rescue operation. Many vehicles fell into the river, and tragically, there have been reports of casualties. The local administration quickly responded to the situation, and the Municipal Commissioner ordered a review of the structural stability of all bridges in the city.
In total, Vadodara has 43 bridges, which include 14 railway overbridges and 4 flyovers. The Municipal Corporation had previously conducted a survey of these bridges before the monsoon, and a report indicated that all were safe. However, after the collapse of the Girnara Bridge, the authorities are taking no chances. The Kamati Bagh Bridge is currently closed, and the Jambuva Bridge has been shut since last year.
Dr. Sheetal Mistry, the head of the Municipal Corporation’s standing committee, has confirmed that the two bridges were closed based on reports from consultants. Presently, only limited access is allowed on the closed bridges. The authorities have also started civil work on various bridges, including recent work on the Kalaghoda Bridge.
The collapse of the Girnara Bridge has raised serious concerns about the safety of other structures in the city. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene as vehicles plunged into the river. Initial reports indicate that three people have lost their lives in the incident, while five others were rescued. Footage from the scene has left many shocked and concerned about public safety.
Local residents have voiced their frustrations regarding the maintenance of infrastructure. There are accusations against the ruling party for neglecting the upkeep of the bridge, which ultimately led to the disaster. The Girnara Bridge played a crucial role in connecting Anand and Vadodara districts, making its collapse even more significant for local traffic and transport.
In light of this incident, the Municipal Corporation is now looking to enhance revenue by introducing paid parking beneath the Atal Bridge in Vadodara. This move aims to address the severe parking issues in the city while also generating funds for further infrastructure developments.
The situation remains critical as local authorities work diligently to ensure the safety of all bridges in Vadodara. Further assessments and repairs are likely to be initiated to prevent any future incidents of this nature. Community members are urged to stay informed and follow any advisories issued by the authorities regarding bridge safety and travel routes in the area.
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